I’m back to offer a couple of observations on the opening day at Keeneland, which features the $500,000 Alcibiades S. (G1) for two-year-old fillies and the $400,000 First Lady S. (G1) for fillies and mares at one mile on the turf.
Mani Bhavan, the undefeated winner of the Spinaway S. (G1) and Adirondack S. (G2) at Saratoga, stands out over an unaccomplished field in the 1 1/16-mile Alcibiades. The Steve Klesaris pupil has worked well over the synthetic track at Fair Hill in preparation for her two-turn and synthetic track debut in the Alcibiades, but as the 7-5 morning line favorite, she will not offer much value.
Going forward, I believe Mani Bhavan will be a major player in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Fillies (G1) at Santa Anita three weeks hence.
I have been in love with Dreaming of Anna ever since she began racing, and she is, without doubt, my top selection in the First Lady. This outstanding filly has exceptional speed and class, and she should put those qualities on display once again this afternoon.
My spot play on the opening-day card is Spring Honour, a $10,000 claimer in the 5TH race. The Michael Pino trainee brings good form into this event, and should offer attractive odds after drawing the far outside post in the 1 1/16-mile event. I plan on keying him in both the early Pick 4 and over all others in the Trifecta.
Tomorrow, I will offer my thoughts on the Champagne S. (G1) and Frizette S. (G1) at Belmont Park and the Breeders’ Futurity (G1) at Keeneland.
Tags: Alcibiades, Dreaming of Anna, First Lady, handicapping, Keeneland, Keeneland selections, Mani Bhavan, The Joyce Report, Thoroughbred racing, Wayne Catalano
